Olive: I work as a radiation therapist at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre.

LK: How did you first discover pole dancing?

Olive: I went to New York for a bachelorette party and tried pole dancing for the first time there.

LK: Do you have any previous dance, fitness or sports experience?

Olive: I have no dance experience, and have never been into any fitness routine or been sporty at all. I actually hated exercising and would dread doing anything to exert energy.

LK: What made you feel pole dancing could be for you and decide to try it?

Olive: I wanted to try something that was completely new and different. I was basically a couch potato and thought I was getting really out of shape and unhealthy, but I had no motivation to go to a gym or join any sports. And I thought pole dancing could be fun and unique.

LK: How did you come to be a member at Brass Vixens?

Olive: I found a Groupon for Brass Vixens and started going to the Yonge studio.

LK: What were your first impressions?

Olive: I thought there were a lot of class selections, and variety. And then I met Kori, and felt so welcomed and cared for.

LK: What keeps you committed to pole dancing?

Olive: Knowing that there are so many elements in pole dancing to improve upon keeps me committed to pole dancing. There’s the conditioning, the flexibility, and the self expression that’s allowed through dance. There is always something to work on and get better and that gives me the drive to keep practicing!

LK: What do you feel is a crucial element for a successful class experience?

Olive: Safety first. Having an instructor that is attentive to everyone’s strengths and weaknesses. And breaking down all the moves especially in higher level classes where I’m learning things for the first time. And having the specific points of contact demonstrated or modifications for difficult moves. That gives me the confidence to be able to try things safely.

LK: What has been an exciting moment for you on your pole journey?

Olive: Being able to express myself through dancing, and being able to work on choreography that’s new and exciting every month.

LK: Do you have any pole goals?

Olive: the ever elusive Ayesha!

LK: How has pole dancing and taking classes at Brass Vixens effected the rest of your life and sense of self?

Olive: Pole dancing has almost become secondary to the friends that I’ve made through being at Brass Vixens. Having surrounded myself with people of similar interest who support me has increased my confidence and happiness. It sounds cheesy but am so glad to have found pole sisters!

LK: What has surprised you the most?

Olive: That I can actually dance! Having no experience in dance and no flexibility, I am surprised that I can learn how to coordinate my body!

LK: What are you favourite classes and why?

Olive: Choreo/Korio and Afrodisia! These classes are always so challenging and cardio intense. The creativity and flow always has me developing my strength and stamina.